The gamemode "Payload" was introduced to Team Fortress 2 in April 2008. It has the blue team pushing the "Payload cart" to a point near the red team's spawn. The red team has to stop the cart from reaching its objective. This article details player tactics for both sides.

Steps

Method1

Attacking (Blue Team)

1

Take up position behind the cart to cover from enemy fire and keep the payload moving to its terminus. Demomen may shoot over the payload to eliminate enemy sentries.

2

Run on ahead small distances to remove enemy resistance before the payload gets near.

3

Slow moving classes (with plenty of health) should get on top of the payload to keep it moving and provide support to those on the ground. For instance a Heavy traveling in this fashion can keep the path of the payload clear from an elevated viewpoint whilst being supplied with health and ammo from the payload

4

Keeping the payload moving forward is imperative, so stay near the payload.

5

Medics should save Übercharges for blasting through enemy defenses where they are stronger.

6

When at low health, consider pushing the payload and getting health and ammo instead of asking Medics to heal you or going to the respawn cabinet

Method2

Defending (Red Team)

1

Know that the Engineer's role cannot be understated here as level three sentries prevent the slow moving opponent force from moving forward. Sentries are, however, quite vulnerable from sneak attacks by spies, so stay near the sentry. Teleporters are imperative for any chance of holding a capture point as getting to the front by walking takes too long.

2

Preventing enemies from getting near the payload for 30 seconds will start the payload moving backwards (if it is "overtime", you only have to wait 5) (these are the default settings for official Valve Payload servers, community ones can have more or less time for these things to happen). This is the only way to push back.

3

Try to keep your team together. A defending team that is spread-out makes the job of the attacking team much easier. There is no reason to go away from the Payload tracks because the Blue team that is pushing will mainly be on those tracks, it is the only way for them to win.